South Africa’s Oscar Pistorius: Running his way into Olympic history

It began with a tweet: ‘Thank you to everyone who has made me the athlete I am! God, family, my competitors and supporters. You have all had a hand.’

What better inspiration for Dream On – I had to get an interview. Although, I never in a million years expected to get one.

This man, ‘Blade Runner’ is already a legend. Not only is he one of the world’s top Paralympians, he has now written himself into the history books by becoming the first amputee track athlete to compete at any games.

Being a double amputee makes Oscar’s achievements all the more inspirational.

Here are some of his achievements:

January 2004 – Runs first competitive 100m race for Pretoria Boys High School in a time of 11.72s. Existing Paralympic world record was 12.20s.

September 2004 – Wins Paralympic gold in T44 200m in a Paralympic world record time of 21.97s and wins bronze in the T44 100m final.

September 2008 – Wins T44 100m, 200m & 400m Paralympic golds in Beijing, setting a new Paralympic record of 47.49s in 400m.

September 2011 – Runs opening leg of 4x400m relay. SA advanced to finals with a national record time of 2 minutes, 59.21 seconds (does not compete in the final but wins a silver medal).

July 2012 – Selected to represent South Africa at London 2012

What has it taken for him to get to this point:

‘Years of dedication, determination and hard work. I’m so privileged to have the opportunity of representing South Africa at an Olympic and Paralympic Games. I want to cherish every minute and make all my supporters proud. I have an amazing team behind me and it is as much a celebration for them, as it is for me.’

Growing up, his grandparents were influential and amongst his greatest supporters. In athletics, his inspirations are Colin Jackson, Frankie Fredericks, and Michael Johnson – ‘They have achieved great things and carried themselves in a very inspirational way. Outside of athletics I am a huge fan of Valentino Rossi and what he has achieved.’

I saw this great quote on his website – You are not disabled by the disabilities you have. You are able by the abilities you have.

‘This is a quote that I very much believe in. Everyday people make the most of their abilities. The Paralympics showcases athletes that are making history from their ability.’

Self belief was instilled in him at an early age; to achieve his goals and go for what he believed in.

‘I’m a very focused and driven athlete, I have always been this way. I’m motivated because I believe in my ability to be the best athlete I can possibly be, I just work hard and see where my career takes me.’

Being a double amputee makes Oscar’s achievements all the more inspirational.

His last answer is great advice for everyone.

Oscar is proof that anything is possible.

’Stay positive and don’t take no for answer. If you believe in something you should go for it and live for your dreams.’